An electronics firm has announced it is to shut its Coventry factory, leaving about 120 people out of work.

Viasystems told shocked workers that it would shut its factory at New Century Park, Allard Way, by the end of October or early November.

The entire staff, including administration and management are expected to lose their jobs. Unions are to meet with bosses for talks in an effort to help the workers.

The American-owned company, which makes metal and plastic components for the electronics industry, has been badly hit by the world telecoms slump. It made about 100 workers redundant in July last year.

The Coventry operation is the last of several factories set up by Viasystems in the UK.

General manager Mathu Kunen said the closure decision was brought about by declining profitability and lower demand for its products.

He also blamed growing competition from eastern Europe and the Far East.

He said: "We will be working closely with our employ-ees over the next couple of months to try and find new jobs opportunities for them."

Aunion leader, however, described the closure as another serious blow for the city.

Gerry O'Reilly, full-time official at the Coventry office of the Transport and General Workers' Union, said: "This is more bad news for Coventry, following on from the Massey Ferguson closure and the disastrous job losses at Marconi.

"We shall be seeking an immediate meeting with the company to see if we can help the situation of the people who are likely to lose their livelihood."